An award of $334,267 from the National Institutes of Health will enable Missouri State University’s Dr. Santimukul Santra to further his research in nanosensor technology.  

He is a faculty member in the department of chemistry and biochemistry.  

As an organic chemist, Santra works on creating small molecule therapeutics for conditions like cancer. He also develops special molecules called dendrimers and hyper-branched polymers. These large molecules carry drugs and deliver them to specific parts of the body such as tumor cells.  

In the lab, Santra and his students design and make their own drug delivery systems from scratch. They make them into unique three-dimensional shapes. This soccer ball-like system can carry more medicine to the targeted tumor.  

“This approach helps minimize side effects and makes treatment more effective by targeting only unhealthy cells,” Santra said.  

Investigating nanosensor technology 

The award supports Santra’s work on nanosensors. These sensors detect certain proteins like those found in influenza and other viruses. They have a core made of superparamagnetic iron oxide coated with degradable polymers.

The study focuses on understanding the fusion of these viruses with host cells. By studying how the virus interacts and fuses with these cells, Santra aims to uncover how the infection works.

This discovery could lead to the development of antiviral therapies, such as small molecules or antibodies, that could inhibit this fusion process. Santra’s goal is to find ways to prevent viral infections by targeting these fusion interactions.

Inspiring students 

Santra sees his students as a vital part in this research process and the reason behind the award. Undergraduate students work hand in hand with graduate students in the lab. They research, conduct experiments and record findings.  

“The students are the ones driving this research,” Santra said.  

Santra advocates for students interested in biochemistry and other science fields. He often spends his free time in the community spreading awareness of the field. He works with schools in the community and encourages those interested in studying biochemistry and other related fields.  

“Our research is focused on helping society,” Santra said. 

Santra’s achievement is no surprise to Dr. Tamera Jahnke, dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences.  

“He has an outstanding record of including students in his research and this is no exception,” Jahnke said.   

 Santra and his students plan to present their research in April during the CNAS Undergraduate Research Day.  

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